Rose hip tea with honey was recommended in Bancke's Herbal of
1525 for the feeble, sick and choleric person. Even though the
reason for the health benefit of the beverage was not discovered
until recently, it is now known that one ounce of concentrated
rose hip contains about as much Vitamin C as a dozen or two
oranges. During World War II, rose hip jelly was an important
substitute for citrus fruits while international shipping lanes
were disrupted. It has also been determined that rose hips
provide B-complex vitamins A, D, and E, are high in organic iron
and calcium and contain measurable amounts of potassium, sulphur,
silica and zinc, as well as fructose and tannins.

The infusion is considered to be a stimulant, a diuretic and a
good treatment for diarrhea. It also reinforces immunity to
infectious diseases, as it is high in Vitamin C. Some sources
state that this herb is a good blood purifier considered helpful
against all infections especially those affecting the bladder or
kidney. This herb also eases stress, battles coughs, colds, the
flu and is very nourishing to the skin. A rose hip based drink is
especially appreciated in winter when fatigue and colds often
strike. The bitterness of rose hip is diminished in a hot drink.
Acidity varies according to the variety of sweetbriar the
produces the hips. Wild rose hips are generally more flavorful
than the hips of any domestic rose plants.